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Head To Replace Konstas, Two Spinners Back; Australia's Probable Squad For Sri Lanka Tests

Rajgeeta∙ Updated: Jan 8 2025, 11:44 AM

Sam Konstas to be dropped [Source: AP]Sam Konstas to be dropped [Source: AP]

Australia are gearing up for a challenging Test series against Sri Lanka, set to begin on January 29, 2025. However, there are reports of a potential change in the opening combination, which could see young opener Sam Konstas dropped with the change. The Australian selectors are considering Travis Head as a new opening option alongside Usman Khawaja, particularly for subcontinent conditions.

Here’s a breakdown of the latest updates regarding Australia’s squad for the upcoming series.

Steve Smith Set to Captain the Side

With Pat Cummins likely to miss part or all of the Sri Lanka tour due to personal reasons — as he awaits the birth of his second child. In his absence, Steve Smith is expected to take over the captaincy. Smith has previously stepped in as captain when Cummins was unavailable and is a reliable leader for the team.

Why Is Sam Konstas Likely to Be Dropped?

Despite showing promise during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar series, Sam Konstas might be dropped with a change in the opening combination.

The reason? Subcontinent pitches, which are known for spin-friendly conditions, require experienced batters who can handle turning tracks.

The Australian management is not convinced about Travis Head's ability to play spin in the middle order. So, they are looking to promote him to the opening spot. In this case, Australia would be needing a good player for spin in the middle order and hence Peter Handscomb comes into the fray. All these possible change in combination might lead to Konstas losing his place.

Travis Head To Open Along With Usman Khawaja

Australia seems to prefer a left-handed opening pair of Usman Khawaja and Travis Head.

While Konstas had initially earned his spot as an opener after impressive performances, it appears that the Australian management values Khawaja’s experience in the subcontinent more. Khawaja has a proven track record on spin-friendly pitches, making him a key player for this series.

Meanwhile, Peter Handscomb will likely be in the squad, since he has a plenty of experience and 

Todd Murphy, Matthew Kuhnemann Back In The Mix

In the bowling department, spinners will play a crucial role on Sri Lankan pitches.

Both Todd Murphy and Matthew Kuhnemann are expected to be included in the squad. Instead of a pace heavy attack like that in the BGT 2024-25, Australia will be looking keep more spinners in the mix because of the subcontinent playing conditions. 

Pace Attack: Starc, Boland, and Abbott

With Pat Cummins likely to miss the tour, Scott Boland is expected to lead Australia’s pace attack in Sri Lanka. Mitchell Starc will also play a key role with his experience and ability to reverse swing the ball on dry surfaces.

Additionally, Sean Abbott and Jhye Richardson are expected to be part of the squad as backup pace options. 

Australia's Probable Test Squad for Sri Lanka: 

Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (C), Peter Handscomb, Nathan McSweeney, Beau Webster, Alex Carey, Sean Abbott, Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy, Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Jhye Richardson